Catherine knocked on the bathroom door and I was ripped from my trance.
“Yeah. I’m okay. I think I had a little too much wine,” I said.
“That isn’t even your first glass.”
“I haven’t eaten dinner yet. So it’s probably that.”
“Girl, why the hell didn’t you say so then? I’ll order us some Chinese. You want your usual?”
“That sounds good. Yeah. Thanks. I’m going to splash some water in my face, then I’ll be out.”
“Take your time, girl. Red wine on an empty stomach is never a good thing.”
“Thanks. I think.”
I tucked my phone into my pocket and turned on the faucet. I had no idea what I was going to do. I wanted to spend time with Ryan. I enjoyed the time I spent with him. He made me feel beautiful. Wanted. Cherished in the way a woman should feel. But after seeing those articles, my mind was running away from me.
I felt in over my head.
I threw some water into my face, then reached for a towel. My hands were shaking and I knew I had to find a way to calm myself down. I wasn’t sure what to do about dinner with Ryan and the kids the next day, but I knew what I needed to do immediately.
I needed to emotionally remove myself from the situation.
I had to make it about the kids again.
“Emma?”
“Yeah?”
“The Chinese place is running a special. Want some vegetable lo mein, too?” Catherine asked.
My stomach growled in anticipation as I hung the towel back up.
“That actually sounds good. Get me some. And some of those crab rangoon things, too. I’ve been wanting more since I tried one of yours.”
“Coming right up,” she said.
“And feel free to dig in my wallet for money!”
“You got dinner last time, so it’s my treat. Love you, mean it!”
I shook my head as I drew in a deep breath. I could panic all I wanted at a later time. But right now, I was with Catherine. Enjoying some girl time after a very long and exhausting week at work. It was time I needed with her and I wasn’t going to let her opinions of Ryan spoil it for me. I was a big girl. I could make decisions on my own.
If only I knew what the right decision for this situation was.
“Emma?”
“I really can’t pee in peace can I?” I asked.
“I’ve got Magic Mike 2 as well as the new Fast and Furious movie. Which do you want?” Catherine asked.
“Do you really have to ask me?”
“Fast and Furious, it is. Hopefully Vin Diesel’s shirtless in this one.”
“He’s always shirtless. You’ll get your shot,” I said with a grin.
“Got the food ordered! Now get your ass out here and watch all the explosions with me.”